Felix Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte," Op. 85, also known as "Songs Without Words," is a collection of six piano pieces composed in 1845. Here are some interesting facts about this set of musical works:
Late Composition: Opus 85 was one of Mendelssohn's later works in the "Lieder ohne Worte" series. It was composed shortly before his death in 1847 and was published posthumously.
Dedication: The pieces are dedicated to Clara Schumann, a highly regarded pianist and composer of the Romantic era. Clara was a close friend of Mendelssohn, and the dedication reflects the mutual admiration between the two.
Varied Character: Each piece in Op. 85 has its own distinct character and mood. Mendelssohn was known for his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music, and this collection is no exception.
Titles: Unlike some of the earlier sets in the "Lieder ohne Worte" series, Op. 85 does not include descriptive titles for each piece. Mendelssohn preferred to let the music speak for itself without providing specific programmatic details.
Influence on Romantic Music: Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte" had a significant impact on the Romantic music scene. The concept of lyrical, expressive piano pieces without words was innovative and influential, inspiring later composers.
Piano Miniatures: The "Lieder ohne Worte" series, as a whole, is a collection of short piano pieces, often considered as miniatures. These works showcase Mendelssohn's melodic gift and his ability to create expressive and intimate musical moments.
Legacy: Mendelssohn's influence extended beyond his lifetime, and his works, including the "Lieder ohne Worte," continue to be appreciated and performed by pianists around the world.
These facts contribute to the understanding of Mendelssohn's Op. 85 and highlight its significance in the context of Romantic piano music.